Falcon Ridge Middle Schoolers Selected for State Jazz Ensemble

eighth graders Abby Dettmer and Olivia Nichols were recently selected to perform with the Minnesota Mid-Level Honor Jazz Ensemble for students in grades seven through nine, according to a press release.

The ensemble, organized by the Minnesota Jazz Educators Association, allows student musicians to learn from professional jazz musicians and play in a talented ensemble.

Dettmer plays trumpet, while Nichols plays alto saxophone, according to the release.

Middle school students from across Minnesota auditioned to be selected for the band, which will rehearse together during one four-hour session in February before performing at the Minneapolis Convention Center for the Minnesota Music Educators Association’s annual conference at 9:15 a.m. Feb. 17.

The honor ensemble will be conducted by Ethan Freier, a local jazz artist and composer who teaches instrumental music at Northfield Middle School, according to the press release.